College Scholarships for Native American Students

Scholarships are a form of financial aid that doesn’t have to be repaid in most cases. There are many scholarships and other forms of financial assistance available to help Native American students pay for college.

This guide provides a sample list of Native American college scholarships, an overview of common eligibility requirements, and tips for applying.

Eligibility Requirements

Before applying to scholarships, check that you meet the eligibility requirements. Scholarships have unique award criteria, so it’s important to review and verify whether you meet all of them.

That being said, some common factors that can impact qualifying for a scholarship include where you live, field of study, grade point average (GPA), financial need, leadership experience, and degree type.

Recommended: 10 Most Common Types of Scholarships for College

How to Find Native American Scholarships

Scholarships for higher education may be offered by academic institutions, employers, charitable foundations, and state, local, or tribal governments.

Finding scholarships for Native American students starts with completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine financial need. It’s common for scholarship programs to use the FAFSA to determine eligibility for need-based awards.

After filling out the FAFSA, there are online resources to help search for scholarships. The Department of Labor maintains a scholarship database, known as CareerOneStop. Additionally, the National Indian Education Association keeps a list of scholarships for Native Americans to pursue higher education.

SoFi’s scholarship finder is another resource to find free money to help pay for an undergraduate, graduate, or professional degree. Users can filter by residency, field of study, ethnicity, and other criteria to narrow their search.

Scholarships for Native American Students

Though Native American students account for just 1% of undergraduate enrollment in the U.S., there are numerous Native American scholarships offered by tribal governments, non-profits, private companies, and other entities.

For a chance to win SoFi’s monthly $2,500 Scholarship Sweepstakes, you’ll just need to submit your name, email address, and school.

Browse the college scholarships for Native American students below to see what additional opportunities you qualify for.

•   American Indian Education Fund Scholarships: Awards for Native American, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian students pursuing undergraduate and graduate degrees.

•   American Indian Services Scholarship: Awards for undergraduate students who are enrolled members of a federally recognized American Indian or Alaska Native tribe.

•   Catching the Dream Scholarship: Awards for Native American and Alaska Native students to study business administration, economic development, and related subjects.

•   Cherokee Nation Higher Education Scholarships: Multiple scholarships for registered Cherokee citizens pursuing an associate, bachelor’s, or graduate degree.

•   Consuelo W. Gosnell Memorial Scholarship: Awards for master’s degree candidates in social work who have demonstrated a commitment to working with American Indian, Alaska Native, and Hispanic/Latino populations.

•   Continental Society Daughters of Indian Wars Scholarship: Awards for undergraduate Native American students who are enrolled tribal members and plan to work in education or social services with a tribe or nation.

•   DAR American Indian Scholarship: Awards for Native American students enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program, with preference given to undergrad students.

•   EDSA Diversity Scholarships: Awards for Native American and minority students to continue studying landscape architecture, either at graduate school or in the final two years of an undergraduate program.

•   Full Circle and Tribal College Scholarships: Awards for Native American and Alaska Native students seeking technical, undergraduate, and graduate degrees at tribal colleges or accredited non-profit schools.

•   The Gates Scholarship: Highly-competitive, merit- and need-based awards for minority high school seniors from low-income backgrounds.

•   Hopi Tribe Grants and Scholarships Program: Multiple awards for enrolled members of the Hopi Tribe to pursue post-secondary and professional degrees.

•   Minority Undergraduate Retention Grant: Financial assistance to Native American and other minority students enrolled at a college in Wisconsin.

•   NACME Scholarships: Awards for Native American, African American, and Hispanic-American students enrolled in an undergraduate engineering or computer science program.

•   Native American Scholarship Program: Merit-based awards for Native American college students with proof of tribal registration.

•   Native Forward Scholars Fund: Scholarships and support services for Native American students pursuing undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees.

•   NativeVision Scholarship: Scholarships for Native American students to help fund their first year of college.

•   Truman D. Picard Scholarship: Awards for Native American and Native Alaskan students pursuing careers in natural resources.

•   Udall Undergraduate Scholarship: Awards for college sophomores and juniors who demonstrate a commitment to issues related to Tribal policy, the environment, or healthcare.

•   USET Scholarship Fund: One-time award for Native American college students who are members of United South and Eastern tribes.

•   Wells Fargo American Indian Scholarship: Awards for enrolled members of a U.S. federally recognized American Indian or Alaska Native tribe pursuing a degree in gaming, tourism, financial, or hospitality industries.

Recommended: How to Apply for Student Loans

Types of Scholarships Available for Native Americans

Most students use multiple funding sources to pay for college. There are multiple types of scholarships for Native Americans to look into, including awards based on academics, athletics, extracurricular activities, discipline or area of study, and more.

Native American students may be eligible to apply for other scholarships for minorities, too. Keep in mind that awards with a wider application pool are often more competitive.

First-generation college students, veterans, and active service members also have specific scholarships available to them.

Recommended: Grants, Scholarships and Loans: Differences

Need-Based Scholarships

The cost of college can be a barrier for many students. Need-based financial aid, including scholarships, is intended to make attending college more affordable for eligible students.

Need-based scholarships are typically determined based on the information students provide on the FAFSA. They may include grants for college expenses, work-study programs, and federal student loans.

Merit-Based Scholarships

Students may qualify for scholarships based on their academics. Merit-based scholarships typically consider a student’s standardized test scores, GPA, or academic performance in a specific subject area.

Class rank is another factor that may be used to determine merit scholarship eligibility.

Tips for Applying

With so many scholarships to choose from, the application process may feel overwhelming. Here are some quick tips to guide your scholarship applications.

First, take note of the application deadlines and required materials for each scholarship, including essays, transcripts, and letters of recommendation. A scholarship checklist can keep you organized and on schedule with applications.

Plus, it’s helpful to have the details for every scholarship you’re applying to when asking a teacher or supervisor to write a letter of recommendation. Double check that whomever you ask fulfills the application requirements, as some scholarships may require a letter from a guidance counselor or a teacher of a core academic subject.

Finally, remember that students can apply for scholarships throughout their studies. In some cases, scholarships may be specifically intended for upperclassmen versus first-year students.

To avoid leaving money on the table, plan to research and apply for scholarships every year.

Recommended: 8 Tips for Asking a Professor for a Letter of Recommendation

The Takeaway

There are numerous scholarships and grants available to make college more affordable for Native American students. It’s not uncommon for students to need additional financing, such as federal and private student loans, to fill any funding gaps for college. It’s important to use federal loans first, as they come with borrower protections and income-driven repayment plans.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.


Cover up to 100% of school-certified costs including tuition, books, supplies, room and board, and transportation with a private student loan from SoFi.

FAQ

Do I need to be an enrolled tribal member for these scholarships?

Yes, many scholarships for Native Americans require applicants to be enrolled tribal members. Some awards are available only to members of federally recognized tribes or nations.

Are there scholarships for non-Native spouses of tribal members?

Generally, Native American scholarships are reserved for applicants with tribal membership or who are at least ¼ American Indian or Alaskan Native.

Can I apply for multiple Native American scholarships?

Yes, you can apply for multiple Native American scholarships. Students may combine multiple scholarships, grants, and other financial aid to pay for college.


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SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. We encourage you to evaluate all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs.

Terms and conditions apply. SOFI RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY OR DISCONTINUE PRODUCTS AND BENEFITS AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE. SoFi Private Student loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, such as completion of a loan application and self-certification form, verification of application information, the student's at least half-time enrollment in a degree program at a SoFi-participating school, and, if applicable, a co-signer. In addition, borrowers must be U.S. citizens or other eligible status, be residing in the U.S., Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, or American Samoa, and must meet SoFi’s underwriting requirements, including verification of sufficient income to support your ability to repay. Minimum loan amount is $1,000. See SoFi.com/eligibility for more information. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change. This information is current as of 4/22/2025 and is subject to change. SoFi Private Student loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

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SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.


Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.

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What Is a Student Loan Refinance Bonus?

Some lenders offer a monetary incentive for new and existing customers called a student loan refinance bonus. There are different kinds of student loan refinance offers you may come across, and it’s smart to compare them when you’re refinancing.

Read on to learn about student loan refinance deals and how they work to help determine if one might be right for you.

Student Loan Refinance Bonuses Explained

A student loan refinance bonus is an incentive from a lender to help bring in new business. A lender might offer a cash bonus or give an interest rate discount to borrowers who are refinancing student loans.

A refinance bonus is similar to a sign-up bonus you might get when you apply for a new credit card or open a savings account. After you are approved for a refinanced student loan with a fixed or variable rate, the lender will issue the bonus to you.

How They Work

To get a student loan refinance bonus offer, you typically need to apply for refinancing using a specific promotion link. The link might be on the lender’s website, you might get it in your mail or email, or a third-party partner of the lender may send it to you. Some student loan refinance deals are available for a limited time, while other are offered on an ongoing basis.

Once you’re approved for refinancing, you’ll receive the bonus from the lender. The bonus may be issued to you via electronic transfer to your bank account or mailed as a check.

Types of Student Loan Refinance Bonuses

Student loan refinance bonuses can come in different forms. Below are a few common types you might see if you’re considering refinancing your student loans.

Cash Bonuses

Think of this one-time lump sum as a welcome bonus you get for taking out a student refinancing loan. A cash bonus is a way for lenders to earn your business if you’re a new customer, or to reward you for being a loyal customer if you already have an account with them.

Referral Bonuses

If you’re a borrower who has refinanced student loans and you recommend your lender to other people, you may be eligible for a referral bonus. Your lender gives you a referral link or code that you can pass along to family and friends who are interested in refinancing their student loans.

When one of your contacts refinances their student loans using your personal link or code, you get the bonus. Lenders might also provide a bonus or discount to the newly referred customer.

Interest Rate Discounts

Some student loan refinance deals come in the form of discounts instead of cash back. For example, many lenders offer an interest rate discount to borrowers who sign up for autopay.

In exchange for signing up for automatic payments, the lender gives you a small discount off your existing student loan refinance rate — typically a 0.25% reduction. This discounted rate generally applies throughout your loan term as long as you remain enrolled in autopay.

How to Qualify for a Student Loan Refinance Bonus

To get a student loan refinance bonus, you’ll need to follow the lender’s specific requirements. This varies between lenders and bonus programs, but you can typically expect to take these steps.

1.    Register or apply using the bonus link, code, or website page.

2.    Fill out a student loan refinance application.

3.    Meet the lender’s eligibility requirements and get your loan application approved.

4.    Provide bank account details to receive your bonus.

5.    Complete tax forms, like a Form W-9, if necessary.

6.    Once your loan amount is disbursed, receive your bonus offer.

Depending on the size of the cash bonus you receive, you might be responsible for income taxes on the money. The IRS treats amounts of $600 or greater as taxable income. In that case, your lender might issue you a Form 1099-MISC for your tax reporting purposes.

Benefits of a Student Loan Refinance Bonus

You may decide to refinance if you can get a fixed interest rate, lower rate, or a more favorable term. As part of the refinancing process, a student loan refinance bonus can be a useful perk. Here’s what it might do for you.

•   Help you earn cash back. If you’re already considering a student loan refinance, a bonus offer may sweeten the deal. Cash bonuses come as a lump sum that you can use in any way you’d like.

•   Allow you to pay down your loan balance faster. If your goal is to be debt-free as quickly as possible, the bonus you earn can be redirected toward paying off student loans early. Ideally, if you qualify, you might be able to pair this strategy with a lower student loan refinance rate for greater savings over time.

•   Provide benefits for you and a friend. By taking advantage of a referral-based refinance student loans bonus, you can get a cash-back incentive — and so potentially can the friend you referred. It’s a win-win for both parties.

The Takeaway

Paying back student loans can be costly. A student loan refinance bonus can help put money back in your pocket and potentially unlock a lower interest rate on your loan, if you qualify.

But before deciding on a student loan refinance bonus, look at the big picture. As you’re considering refinancing offers, calculate how much the interest rate on each loan will cost you over time. A refinance loan with a lower interest rate over the long term might be more financially beneficial than a high upfront cash bonus. Shop around with different lenders to find the best option for you.

Looking to lower your monthly student loan payment? Refinancing may be one way to do it — by extending your loan term, getting a lower interest rate than what you currently have, or both. (Please note that refinancing federal loans makes them ineligible for federal forgiveness and protections. Also, lengthening your loan term may mean paying more in interest over the life of the loan.) SoFi student loan refinancing offers flexible terms that fit your budget.

With SoFi, refinancing is fast, easy, and all online. We offer competitive fixed and variable rates.

FAQ

Are student loan refinance bonuses taxable?

If a refinance student loan bonus is $600 or more, the IRS considers the bonus taxable. You’ll receive a Form 1099-MISC from the lender that you can refer to when filing your annual tax return. You are responsible for paying any tax liability associated with the bonus.

Can I qualify for multiple refinance bonuses?

You might qualify for multiple refinance offers, depending on your lender. For example, you may receive a referral bonus for referring a friend who takes out a refinance loan, and you might also qualify for an interest rate discount if you enroll your loans in autopay.

How do refinance bonuses affect my credit score?

Receiving a student loan refinance bonus doesn’t directly affect your credit score. However, applying for student loan refinancing requires a hard credit check, which can temporarily impact your credit score.


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SoFi Student Loan Refinance
Terms and conditions apply. SoFi Refinance Student Loans are private loans. When you refinance federal loans with a SoFi loan, YOU FORFEIT YOUR ELIGIBILITY FOR ALL FEDERAL LOAN BENEFITS, including all flexible federal repayment and forgiveness options that are or may become available to federal student loan borrowers including, but not limited to: Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF), Income-Based Repayment, Income-Contingent Repayment, extended repayment plans, PAYE or SAVE. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers.
Learn more at SoFi.com/eligibility. SoFi Refinance Student Loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

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SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.


Tax Information: This article provides general background information only and is not intended to serve as legal or tax advice or as a substitute for legal counsel. You should consult your own attorney and/or tax advisor if you have a question requiring legal or tax advice.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.

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What Are Holiday Loans?

Holiday loans are personal loans marketed toward those looking for extra money to pay for holiday expenses. In other words, they’re personal loans with some tinsel thrown on them. They are marketed to help people afford such seasonal spending as gifts, airfare to visit relatives, or the cost of renting a ski chalet for a big celebration.

Like other personal loans, holiday loans are usually offered at a fixed interest rate, and payments are made in regular monthly installments. However, even though they often come with lower interest rates than credit cards, taking out a holiday loan might not be the best financial move. Learn more here.

Key Points

•   Holiday loans are unsecured personal loans marketed for seasonal expenses like gifts, travel, or celebrations, often with borrowing caps as low as $2,000.

•   Typical interest rates range from 7.99% to 13.99% APR, with repayment terms of one to five years, meaning debt can linger long after the holidays.

•   Pros include fast funding, no collateral, and manageable monthly payments; cons include high interest, added fees, and the risk of long-term debt for short-term spending.

•   Alternatives such as saving ahead, 0% APR credit cards, standard personal loans, or buy now/pay later plans may be more cost-effective.

•   Best suited for borrowers who can confidently repay early to minimize interest and avoid long-lasting financial strain.

Understanding Holiday Loans

Holiday loans are basically defined as personal loans, with some seasonal flair. They may also be marketed as Christmas loans, depending on the financial institution that’s offering them.

The bank may list a variety of ways to use the money you get in a holiday loan, such as gift buying or holiday travel, but once the funds hit your account — just like with any other personal loan — you can use them for just about anything. There’s no need to verify that you put the funds toward, say, a new bike for your sweetie or a luxe hotel stay for the entire family.

Like other personal loans, holiday loans are usually unsecured. This means you don’t use a tangible asset like your home or a car as collateral, which means they may have higher interest rates on average than some other kinds of loans. They may also have more stringent qualification requirements, since an unsecured loan is a riskier prospect for the lender.

Features of Holiday Loans

The specific features of each holiday loan, including the amount available to borrow, will vary depending on the lender.

•   Typical loan amount: Some banks may cap their holiday loans at relatively low amounts, like $2,000, while others might offer tens of thousands of dollars to borrowers, as long as they can meet the eligibility requirements.

•   Interest rate: Most holiday loans come with a fixed interest rate. Because holiday loans are unsecured, interest rates tend to be higher than they are for secured loans like mortgages and car payments. For the 2023 holiday season, holiday loan rates ranged from approximately 7.99% to 13.99% annual percentage rate, or APR. However, these numbers will fluctuate with the economy and other factors, such as your credit score.

•   Loan term: A typical loan term (or repayment period) is a year or longer. Some holiday loans may come with terms as long as five years, which is a long time to be paying off a Christmas gift, tickets to the Nutcracker ballet, or a holiday party, no matter how awesome it was.

•   Fees: Be sure to read the fine print, because some holiday loans may also include additional fees like origination fees or early repayment penalties. If you take out a large high-interest loan, you may want to repay it more quickly than the term calls for to save money on overall interest.

•   Application process: Many Christmas holiday loans and other variations can be applied for online. You’ll likely need to upload certain documentation to prove your identity and your earnings. However, if you prefer an in-person process vs. a holiday loan online application, you may find a bank or credit union in your area offers this option.

💡 Quick Tip: Not sure what certain loan terms mean? Check out the Personal Loans Glossary for a simple guide to the basics.

Pros and Cons of Holiday Loans

Like any financial decision, there are both benefits and drawbacks to consider when it comes to holiday loans.

Pros:

•   Quick money upfront for holiday expenses (perhaps helping you achieve the “best holiday ever”)

•   No need to put down collateral

•   Longer payoff terms can keep monthly payments relatively low

•   Easy online application process

Cons:

•   High interest rates can mean you’ll likely pay a lot more for that gift or party than you would have in cash

•   Interest rates may be higher than other sources of funding

•   Origination fees and early repayment penalties could increase costs even more

•   Payoff terms of several years can keep you in debt long after that holiday season is remembered

Who Should Consider a Holiday Loan?

In many cases, financial advisors recommend against going into debt to pay for a seasonal celebration. Interest charges mean you’ll pay more for everything you purchase than you would if you bought items with cash. Even the best holiday trip or Hanukkah present may not be worth paying hundreds or even thousands of extra dollars in interest.

However, sometimes there are compelling reasons to take out that holiday loan. Maybe your family is about to move cross-country and you want to have a special celebration with relatives. Or you and your partner want to use the holiday as the occasion to get a much-needed new car.

Whatever the case, you are likely to have the best outcome with a holiday loan if you are confident you can repay the loan in full, preferably ahead of its full term. That can help you dodge some of the interest charges. Just be sure to check the fine print so you won’t be subject to any early repayment penalties.

Recommended: Affordable Ways to Celebrate the Holidays

Alternatives to Holiday Loans

If you want to enjoy an unforgettable season, there are alternatives to holiday loans worth considering.

Saving Up in Advance

Yes, you’ve probably thought of this one — but as mentioned, going into debt almost always means paying interest, and interest means each purchase costs far more than it otherwise would. Planning ahead and perhaps making automatic transfers into a savings account over the months prior to the holiday season can be a smart move.

Using Credit Cards Strategically

If you have access to a credit card with a high enough limit, it might be an alternative to a holiday loan. Again, though, if you want to avoid paying interest, make sure you’re in a position to pay it off in full before the grace period ends.

You may also be able to apply for a new credit card that offers a 0% interest promotional period. Usually, these periods last about a year, which could give you more time to pay off the holiday debt without accruing interest. But again, make sure you can pay it off in full before time runs out. Otherwise, you may face interest rates even higher than you would with holiday loans.

Other Financing Options

As the holidays roll around, you might also consider some other ways to pay for seasonal expenses.

•   You could take out a standard personal loan (vs. one marketed as for the holidays). This will typically have a lower interest rate than credit cards. See how these compare to holiday loans before you commit.

•   You might see if a close friend or family member would be willing to loan you some money; just make sure to honor the terms of repayment so as not to rock your relationship.

•   Buy now, pay later offers allow you to purchase items on a form of layaway plan.

•   Another possible source of funding could be a P2P loan, which involves individuals lending and borrowing to one another without a bank’s involvement.

Recommended: How Much Will a Personal Loan Cost You?

The Takeaway

Holiday loans are personal loans marketed to people looking for extra money to spend on holiday expenses. While some are on the smaller side (up to $2,000), some lenders will approve tens of thousands of dollars to borrowers for holiday purchases and celebrations. Compare options carefully, though. You likely don’t want to spend any longer than necessary paying off holiday expenses. Shop around for the right terms to suit your financial situation.

Think twice before turning to high-interest credit cards. Consider a SoFi personal loan instead. SoFi offers competitive fixed rates and same-day funding. See your rate in minutes.


SoFi’s Personal Loan was named a NerdWallet 2026 winner for Best Personal Loan for Large Loan Amounts.

FAQ

Is it difficult to get a holiday loan?

Because holiday loans are unsecured loans, which can be a relatively high-risk venture for the lending bank, they may have more stringent application requirements than secured loans like mortgages and auto loans. However, some lenders may advertise holiday loans for bad credit. These can come with even higher interest rates and fees than other similar loans, though.

Are holiday loans common?

Holiday loans aren’t the most common type of personal loan; personal loans are more commonly taken out by people consolidating debt or renovating their houses. But holiday loans are certainly not unheard of, and many lenders advertise them specifically.

Do banks typically offer holiday loans?

While not every bank offers holiday loans, many banks, credit unions, and other financial institutions offer regular, unsecured personal loans. Funds from those loans can be used to pay for holiday expenses. (In fact, many holiday loans are essentially the same product as personal loans.) No matter what kind of loan you’re taking out, always be sure you understand the full fee structure, including the total amount of interest you stand to pay over the lifetime of the loan, up front.


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SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.


Disclaimer: Many factors affect your credit scores and the interest rates you may receive. SoFi is not a Credit Repair Organization as defined under federal or state law, including the Credit Repair Organizations Act. SoFi does not provide “credit repair” services or advice or assistance regarding “rebuilding” or “improving” your credit record, credit history, or credit rating. For details, see the FTC’s website .

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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Cosigning a Personal Loan: Risks and Benefits

A personal loan cosigner is someone who adds themself to a loan application along with the primary borrower. By taking this step, a cosigner — who typically has good credit — can help an applicant who has a poor credit score or thin credit history get approved for funding.

However, cosigning does come with risks: The cosigner is as liable for the debt as the primary borrower. If the primary signer can’t make payments, the cosigner is expected to swoop in and make them instead. If loan payments are late or the loan goes into default, both signers will likely see their credit score take a hit.

Key Points

•   A cosigner adds their name to a loan application, boosting approval odds and potentially securing better rates or higher amounts for the borrower.

•   Cosigners take on equal legal responsibility for repayment — late or missed payments affect both the borrower’s and cosigner’s credit scores.

•   Benefits include higher approval chances, better loan terms, and possible credit building for the cosigner if payments are made on time.

•   Risks include financial liability, credit damage, legal consequences (like wage garnishment), and potential strain on personal relationships.

•   To protect themselves, cosigners should consider written agreements, monitoring statements/credit reports, or serving as a guarantor instead of a full cosigner.

Understanding Cosigning

As mentioned above, a cosigner is someone who adds their name to a loan application, taking on equal financial responsibility for the loan. Their credit history, income, and other financial qualifications will be part of the materials provided for the loan application. A cosigner’s solid credit score and history can substantially increase the approval odds for primary borrowers with little credit history (or a poor one).

By becoming a cosigner, you might enable a close friend or family member to get approved for a personal loan at a more favorable rate and/or for a higher amount.

Cosigning examples: It’s common for parents to cosign student loan applications for college students, whose credit files are likely still thin. Or if you’ve had some negative credit events (such as late payments) on your file for a few years but are ready to buy a new car, enlisting a cosigner could help you successfully close the deal — and potentially qualify for a lower interest rate.

In the case of a personal loan, it is likely to be an unsecured term loan at a fixed interest rate that the primary borrower is seeking. If approved, these funds could be used for anything from car repairs to travel expenses to a home improvement project.

An important note: Understand the difference between a loan guarantor vs. cosigner. If you are a guarantor, your responsibility only kicks in if the loan goes into default, but as a cosigner, you are as legally responsible for the debt as the primary applicant at every step along the way. This means that if that applicant makes late payments, the cosigner’s credit history and score can be negatively impacted.

If the debt is unpaid and goes to collections, both cosigner and guarantor could face a court case and potentially have their wages garnished.

Benefits of Cosigning a Personal Loan

The upsides of cosigning a personal loan include:

•   Adding a cosigner can increase the odds of approval for the primary borrower, possibly unlocking financial products and milestones they otherwise wouldn’t reach. For instance, they might use a personal loan to consolidate credit card debt, thereby freeing up funds to pay off a student loan.

•   In addition to gaining approval, enlisting a cosigner could help the primary borrower snag a higher loan amount and/or a lower interest rate.

•   For cosigners themselves, adding their name to a loan could potentially build their credit history in the long run. It might, say, increase their credit mix, which could be a positive factor, as long as the loan is paid on time each month.

In these ways, cosigning could benefit your financial standing.

Recommended: How Cosigning Affects Your Credit

Risks of Cosigning a Personal Loan

The risks of a personal loan with a cosigner should not be taken lightly:

•   Should the primary borrower fail to make payments and end up defaulting on a personal loan, the debt is as much the cosigner’s responsibility as the borrower’s.

•   If the primary applicant makes late payments on the loan — or fails to make payments at all — those factors will impact the cosigner’s credit file just as they will the primary applicant’s. That’s true up to and including legal suits.

•   Cosigners are usually people you’re close to in life (like family members or dear friends). For this reason, enlisting or becoming a cosigner has the potential to strain interpersonal relationships if something doesn’t go as planned. How would you feel if you were a cosigner on your sibling’s personal loan and they failed to make payments, leaving you saddled with debt? It’s worthwhile to think through this kind of worst-case scenario before agreeing to cosign.

•   The basic act of cosigning a loan can also negatively impact a cosigner’s credit, even if the debt is managed well by the primary applicant. An example: The loan could increase the overall amounts owed, possibly lowering your credit score. In addition, adding your name to the application could ding your credit score a bit for a brief period since a hard credit inquiry will be involved.

Even if you are eager to help a friend or family member snag a personal loan by serving as a cosigner, it’s important to evaluate these risks before diving in.

Legal Implications of Cosigning

While it usually doesn’t happen until a debt has gone unpaid for a long time, it is possible for a collections agency to take borrowers — including personal loan cosigners — to court.

If the judge rules in their favor, the collector could potentially garnish your wages, place a lien on your property, or freeze funds in your bank account. These are reasons why it’s so important for cosigners to ensure they’re actually capable of repaying a loan in the primary applicant’s stead if necessary.

Factors to Consider Before Cosigning

If you’re considering doing someone the (big) favor of applying for a personal loan as a cosigner, here are some factors to think through carefully before you sign your name on the dotted line.

•   Your own credit history. Consider whether your credit history is strong enough to help the primary borrower successfully apply for a personal loan in the first place. If your credit is also only so-so, the application may be denied — or subject to a higher interest rate, which could make repayment more difficult.

•   Your financial goals. While cosigning a personal loan could be an altruistic act, don’t be totally selfless. This decision could have a negative impact on your credit history or even your cash flow if you end up being the one to take over the payments. Be sure to consider your own financial goals when weighing your options.

•   Your relationship to the person asking. Cosign a loan only for someone you trust will do everything in their power to repay the loan on time. Also keep in mind that if something goes awry, your relationship to that person may end up strained. Even if the only hit you take is emotional and not financial, that can still have a profoundly negative impact on your life.

Recommended: Personal Loan Guide for Beginners

How to Protect Yourself as a Cosigner

If you do decide to be a personal loan cosigner, here are some ways to help protect your financial situation.

•   Draft a written contract with the primary applicant. While verbal promises can go a long way, having a written document stating both parties’ expectations — and outlining what actions will take place if they’re not met — can be invaluable if something goes wrong.

•   Ask if you can be a guarantor instead. Being a guarantor on a loan allows the primary applicant to enlist your help as a financial backer. However, it stops short of conferring the full responsibility of the loan on you. Instead, if you’re a guarantor, you’ll only become responsible for the loan if it goes into default (which is a serious consideration in its own right, but somewhat less entwined than a cosigner role).

•   Monitor your credit score. Given the impact cosigning a loan could have on your credit, it’s a good idea to enroll in a free credit score monitoring program to help keep you abreast of any sudden changes. (Credit score monitoring is often a good financial move even if you’re not cosigning a loan.)

•   Ask for copies of each month’s statements. Remember, this loan is just as much yours as theirs. Ask for — and keep — copies of all loan paperwork, from the original agreement to each monthly statement, so you’re up to date on exactly where the loan stands.

The Takeaway

If you have a solid credit history when you cosign a personal loan, you can help increase the primary applicant’s chances of being approved. However, you also take full legal responsibility for the debt. Be sure you only do so in situations in which you trust the primary borrower implicitly and could afford to take on the debt if that person were to default.

If you are in the market for a personal loan, with or without a cosigner, see what SoFi offers.

Think twice before turning to high-interest credit cards. Consider a SoFi personal loan instead. SoFi offers competitive fixed rates and same-day funding. See your rate in minutes.


SoFi’s Personal Loan was named a NerdWallet 2026 winner for Best Personal Loan for Large Loan Amounts.

FAQ

What happens if the primary borrower defaults on the loan?

If the primary borrower defaults on a loan, the creditor (and possibly a collections agency) will turn to the cosigner. That means the loan in default could negatively impact the cosigner’s cash flow, credit history, and credit score. The situation could even end up leading to a court case for the primary borrower and cosigner. That’s why it’s important to think carefully before cosigning a loan.

Can I remove myself as a cosigner from the loan?

It may be possible to remove yourself as a cosigner — but it might not be a simple process. Removing the cosigner often makes the loan a riskier prospect for the lender, so they might do what they can to keep you on the file. If you can’t get a simple cosigner release, the primary borrower may need to take out a new loan, on their own, to pay off the one you cosigned. This would then release you from the debt.

Does cosigning a loan affect my ability to get other loans?

Yes, it could. Think of cosigning just like applying for a loan for yourself. Along with the hard credit check (which could slightly and briefly lower your credit score), the entire loan will also show up on your credit report, potentially increasing your overall amounts owed and your DTI, or debt-to-income ratio. These factors could negatively impact your credit score and make getting another loan harder.


Photo credit: iStock/Moyo Studio

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.


Disclaimer: Many factors affect your credit scores and the interest rates you may receive. SoFi is not a Credit Repair Organization as defined under federal or state law, including the Credit Repair Organizations Act. SoFi does not provide “credit repair” services or advice or assistance regarding “rebuilding” or “improving” your credit record, credit history, or credit rating. For details, see the FTC’s website .

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

This article is not intended to be legal advice. Please consult an attorney for advice.

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Return on Education for Bachelor’s Degrees

A college education is an investment in the future. But as with any investment, it’s important to consider what you’ll get in return — your ROI — to determine if the cost is worth it. And so college students and their parents are weighing the cost of college against future earning potential, as well as intangibles like friendships, network building, and soft skills.

This guide explores the “return on education” for bachelor’s degrees, and offers insights into how to maximize the value of your college education.

Key Points

•   Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) refers to the minimum academic requirements that must be met to maintain eligibility for financial aid in college.

•   Each institution establishes its own SAP policy, typically requiring a minimum GPA of 2.0 and completion of 67% of attempted credits.

•   Students who fail to meet SAP standards may face a financial aid warning, and continued non-compliance can lead to loss of federal assistance.

•   An appeal process exists for students who encounter extenuating circumstances affecting their academic performance, such as illness or family emergencies.

•   Maintaining SAP is crucial to avoid financial burdens, as students may need to pay tuition and expenses out-of-pocket without federal aid.

Average Cost of a Degree

Choosing the right college is a multifaceted decision. Considerations include where the school is located, whether it has programs that meet your interests, what student culture is like, and of course price.

The price tag for college can be jaw dropping. The average cost of college for an in-state student attending a four-year university is $27,146 per year (including living expenses). Students that attend private, nonprofit universities spend an average of $58,628 per year living on campus.

💡 Quick Tip: Fund your education with a low-rate, no-fee SoFi private student loan that covers all school-certified costs.

Return on Investment by Education Level

You can determine your ROI by education level by looking at the ratio of the cost of your degree to your expected income once you graduate. Your return on education is much like a traditional ROI calculation, which looks at the ratio between net profit and cost from investing resources.

In this case, time and money are the resources you’re investing, and your future income is the profit. The ROI for your education will depend largely on how much you spend on your schooling, what type of job you get after school, and to a certain extent what you major in.

Median 40-year ROI for a College Degree, per Education Data Initiative

Education Level

20-year ROI

40-year ROI

Associate Degree

363.5%

1,200.8%

Bachelor’s Degree

38.1%

287.7%

Master’s Degree

90.1%

433.5%

Doctoral Degree

84.0%

416.3%

Professional Degree

60.4%

350.1%

Associate Degree Return on Investment

Associate degrees can typically be completed in one to two years and often at a community college, which can make them more affordable than four-year degrees. According to data from the Education Data Initiative, the ROI for an associate degree is 363.5% after 20 years.

Bachelor’s Degree Return on Investment

Bachelor’s degrees typically take students four years to complete. According to Education Data Initiative, the ROI for a bachelor’s degree is 38.1% after 20 years. Keep in mind, though, that this estimated return on investment can vary greatly based on the major you pursue. For example, computer science degrees offer an ROI of 716.6%.

Master’s Degree Return on Investment

A master’s degree can be completed after a student receives their bachelor’s degree. This degree allows the student to specialize in a specific area of interest, such as those who pursue a Master in Business Administration, or MBA. The ROI for a master’s degree is 90.1% after 20 years, according to Education Data Initiative.

Doctoral Degree Return on Investment

A doctoral degree is generally the most advanced degree one can get in a particular field. Doctorates can take up to eight years to complete, though the exact timing will vary depending on factors like the program type, structure, and research being completed by the doctoral candidate. The estimated ROI for doctorate degrees is 84.0% after 20 years, according to Education Data Initiative.

Professional Degree Return on Investment

Professional degrees are advanced degrees that prepare a student to work in a particular field, such as law or pharmacy. After 20 years, the ROI for a professional degree is 60.4%, according to Education Data Initiative.

Highest Earning Degrees

The return on education will vary depending on the degree program you choose. For example, a student with a computer science degree may earn more than an English major. There are exceptions, but it’s a good idea to understand the norm for particular fields. These are some of the highest-earning degree programs.

Associate Degree

As mentioned, an associate degree takes about two years to complete and can often be finished at a community college for significantly less than it may cost to get a four-year degree. Associate degrees often allow students to specialize in a specific trade or field, and in some cases, this specialization can lead to a high-earning career.

One of the top-earning post-associate degrees is air traffic controllers. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), air traffic controllers earn a median income of $137,380.

Dental hygienists, MRI technicians, and funeral service managers all earn an average salary of $70,000 or higher, making them top associate degrees based on earning potential, as well.

Bachelor’s Degree

According to Best Colleges, some of the bachelor’s degrees with the highest earning potential include chemical engineering, computer engineering, computer science, finance, and business analytics.

For example, in 2023, chemical engineers earned a median salary of $112,100. Financial analysts earned a median salary of $99,890 per year, according to the BLS.

Certifications

Some people may consider adding a certification to their resume in order to boost their earning potential. Professional organizations often award certifications for specific skill sets. Some top earning and in-demand certifications include those for project management and data engineering.

Recommended: Guide to Student Loans for Certificate Programs

Bachelor’s Degree ROI by Major

The ROI can vary quite a bit based on the type of bachelor degree pursued. As mentioned, computer science degrees have some of the best ROI for bachelor’s degrees — about 716.6% over 40 years, according to Education Data Initiative. Take a look below at a list of majors and their estimated ROI after 40 years, according to Education Data Initiative:

•     Business finance — 710.2%

•     Business accounting — 547.2%

•     Electrical engineering — 517.8%

•     Biology — 225.0%

•     Communications — 209.3%

•     Architecture — 188.6%

•     Fine Art — 70.5%

Consider What Can’t Be Measured by Money

Yes, going to college or pursuing other higher education opportunities can be expensive. But in addition to the cost and potential boost in earning potential, there are a variety of intangible benefits that can’t be measured by a dollar. For example, college students living on campus are gaining a newfound independence and developing life skills they’ll carry with them.

Plus, many colleges have strong alumni networks that can help when a student is looking for a job post-grad. Students have the chance to not only get to know themselves better, but in the process they may make lifelong friends.

Recommended: How to Budget as a College Student

Controlling Costs

One way to improve ROI is to lower the amount of money you are paying for school. This could be particularly useful if you already know you want to pursue a career in a relatively low paying field.

Scholarships

You can help offset the cost of tuition by looking for scholarship programs that help pay your tuition and other college expenses. Many schools offer need-based financial aid to families who might otherwise struggle to pay tuition costs. In some cases, you could even get a full ride.

You can find scholarships by looking at your school’s financial aid website, connecting with your guidance counselor, or reviewing databases or online scholarship search tools.

In some cases, you may be able to apply for unclaimed scholarships to help supplement the aid you have already received.

Grants

Students may qualify for grants directly from their school or through federal financial aid. Grants typically do not require repayment, so they can be an incredibly helpful addition to a student’s financial toolkit when it comes to paying for college. Pell Grants are one type of grant awarded by the federal government to students who demonstrate exceptional financial need.

Pell Grants are available to undergraduate students. In order to maintain eligibility for a Pell Grant, undergrads will also be required to meet satisfactory academic progress requirements.

Student Loan Forgiveness Programs

If you need to take out student loans to help pay for college, keep an eye on your terms and interest rates to help keep costs down. If you take out federal loans and plan to work for certain non-profits or government organizations, you may be eligible for loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. After making 10 years’ worth of qualifying monthly payments, the remaining balance of your loan may be forgiven through this program.

Private Student Loans

Private student loans don’t qualify for federal benefits like PSLF, but they can be helpful tools for students who have exhausted their federal financial aid.

If you are interested in paying for college or another higher education degree with a private student loan, take the time to shop around and review interest rates, terms, and other fees or benefits offered by lenders. 

Employer Support After Graduation

Finally, some employers may also help you pay back your student loans as part of a benefits package. Consider working for an employer who offers these benefits.

Recommended: Finding Jobs That Pay Off Student Loans

The Takeaway

College students can estimate the return on their educational investment by looking at how much they’ll pay for their degree and comparing it to their lifetime earnings. Though important, the money you’ll eventually earn isn’t the only thing you should consider when choosing a college. Getting a bachelor’s degree can help you acquire skills and expand your horizons in ways that aren’t directly related to your degree or job prospects.

When you decide on the right school for you, take the time to consider all your options — including scholarships, grants, federal and private student loans, post-graduation repayment programs, and other sources of public and private funding — to help you achieve your education and career goals.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.


Cover up to 100% of school-certified costs including tuition, books, supplies, room and board, and transportation with a private student loan from SoFi.

FAQ

What is the average return on investment for a college degree?

The average return on investment (ROI) for a college degree varies by field, but generally, bachelor’s degree holders earn significantly more over their lifetime than those with only a high school diploma. On average, the ROI for a college degree ranges from 9% to 10%, but can be higher depending on the major and institution.

Which degree has the highest return on investment?

Degrees in fields like engineering, computer science, and technology typically have the highest return on investment (ROI). These degrees often lead to high-paying jobs with strong job security and growth prospects, resulting in a significant lifetime earning advantage compared to the cost of education, making them highly valuable investments.

Is a bachelor’s degree a good investment?

A bachelor’s degree is generally a good investment as it can lead to higher lifetime earnings, greater job stability, and more career opportunities compared to having only a high school diploma. However, the return on investment depends on the chosen field, the cost of education, and individual career goals and outcomes.


SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. We encourage you to evaluate all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs.

Terms and conditions apply. SOFI RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY OR DISCONTINUE PRODUCTS AND BENEFITS AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE. SoFi Private Student loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, such as completion of a loan application and self-certification form, verification of application information, the student's at least half-time enrollment in a degree program at a SoFi-participating school, and, if applicable, a co-signer. In addition, borrowers must be U.S. citizens or other eligible status, be residing in the U.S., Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, or American Samoa, and must meet SoFi’s underwriting requirements, including verification of sufficient income to support your ability to repay. Minimum loan amount is $1,000. See SoFi.com/eligibility for more information. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change. This information is current as of 4/22/2025 and is subject to change. SoFi Private Student loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.


Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.

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